Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), Qualitative — Pregnancy Test
A pregnancy test checks a blood or urine sample for human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy.
["A positive result usually indicates pregnancy, while a negative result may mean you are not pregnant or the test was performed too early."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 64711-5
- Short code
- Pregnancy last W Mo PhenX
- Synonyms
- Pregnancy last W Mo PhenX
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- 0.5 N/A – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- phenx
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This test measures human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in a laboratory sample. hCG is produced by the developing placenta after implantation, and its detection is the basis of most pregnancy tests.
Why might I need this test?
A pregnancy test may be used to confirm a missed period, assess possible early pregnancy, or confirm pregnancy before taking a medication or procedure. It may also be used in the evaluation of certain pregnancy-related conditions.
How is the test performed?
A laboratory professional analyzes a blood or urine sample for hCG using a validated test method. The result is generally reported as positive or negative, although some laboratories also measure the amount of hCG when needed.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow any instructions provided by the laboratory or ordering clinician. If a urine test is requested, using a first-morning urine sample may improve detection of early pregnancy, and drinking excessive fluids beforehand should be avoided.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result strongly suggests that hCG is present and that pregnancy is likely. A negative result may indicate that pregnancy is not present, but testing too early can produce a false-negative result. Unexpected or changing results should be discussed with a healthcare professional, who may recommend repeat testing or additional evaluation.
Short name
Pregnancy test
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive pregnancy test always confirm pregnancy?
Can a pregnancy test be negative even if I am pregnant?
Which type of pregnancy test is most accurate?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy